Monday, March 24, 2008
Roster Cuts
Many of you have probably already seen it, but in case you didn't, LaVelle updated us on the roster cuts this morning in what had to have been a tough scene in the Twins clubhouse in Ft. Myers.
"The Twins optioned four players to Class AAA Rochester this morning - Philip Humber, Denard Span, Brian Buscher and Jason Pridie."
What does this mean? Well, it appears pretty certain that Carlos Gomez is your opening day centerfielder. Denard Span showed a lot this spring and I don't think that the Twins would hesitate to call him up if Gomez starts off slow or they need an extra outfielder. Jason Pridie also showed a lot. Although the coaches seem to think he's only a fourth OF type, hopefully he will get a chance to play every day in Rochester. It means that Matt Tolbert will be the Twins second utility player. It means Nick Punto and Craig Monroe are still on the roster. It likely means that Brian Bass will make his big league debut with the Twins sometime early this season, unless the Twins decide to go with Casey Daigle, who is still in camp. I think Humber also showed a lot. If we're being very honest, the starting rotation is anything but set in stone this season, so expect Humber to get a call up at some point.
The other interesting bit was this:
"The are 13 pitchers left in camp. Indications are that Fransisco Liriano will open the season in the minors"
Interesting, but not necessarily surprising, and if so, not a horrible thing. Again, we all have to remember that he is coming back from Tommy John surgery and no matter how much time he's had or how much rehab he has done, getting on the mound in game situations is much different. So, if he starts in Rochester, or Ft. Myers, or wherever, it isn't a bad thing.
MINOR LEAGUE RELEASES
I also wanted to send a quick update on the eight Twins minor leaguers who were released yesterday. There were:
Dan Leatherman
Adam Hawes
Caleb Moore
David Hernandez
Landon Jacobsen
Kevin Harrington
Sean Land
Kevin Fox
Hopefully some of these guys will be able to latch on with another team, either in affiliated ball or in an independent league. If not, best wishes to them as they begin their new careers.